Northwestern senior one of 10 Oklahoma college students named Newman Civic Fellows

 

April 28, 2017

2017-18 Newman Civic Fellows were recognized during the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education meeting Thursday. From left: Jack Nickelson, Northwestern Oklahoma State University; Devin Smoot, Southwestern Oklahoma State University; Ashton Shepler, Rose State College; Jessica Villar, Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City; State Regents Chair John Massey; Chancellor Glen D. Johnson; Jayton Thomas, University of Central Oklahoma; Shelbi Gambrell, OSU; Rebecka Snyder, Tulsa Community College; and Katherine Davis, Northern Oklahoma College.

Jack Nickelson of Mooreland, senior political science major from Northwestern Oklahoma State University who was awarded the Newman Civic Fellow Award at the university, was recognized during the recent Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education meeting.

Nickelson has excelled in his coursework while helping with his family's farming and ranching operation. He coaches youth soccer and serves as a recreation assistant for his church. He plans to pursue a doctorate in political science and teach at the collegiate level, where he will guide students through the rewards of civic engagement.

Chancellor Glen D. Johnson spoke on behalf of the Regents, praising the students who worked hard to receive this award.

"The State Regents commend these student leaders for making a difference in their communities," Johnson said. "Their civic involvement demonstrates their dedication to making the world a better place. We wish them continued success as they complete their degrees and continue to serve their fellow Oklahomans."

Northwestern's Department of Social Sciences provides many opportunities for its students to learn and develop skills for their field outside of the classroom with the Civic Education Fellowship Program being a prime example. The program was established six years ago to support departmental students who wish to pursue a career in public service. Each year, qualified applicants may submit a completed application with transcript to Dr. Kay Decker, professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Social Sciences. Applicants are reviewed by departmental faculty, and the selection is determined based on GPA, essay and applicant knowledge of public service.

Civic Education Fellows are provided with a stipend to intern at the Oklahoma State Capitol during the final weeks of the legislative session or may choose to pursue an internship in Congress with one of Oklahoma's elected officials. Students can spend anywhere from one week to three months working in the Oklahoma State Capitol or the United States Capitol learning about legislative- and budget-setting processes.

For more information on Northwestern's Social Sciences program contact Decker at 580-327-8521 or [email protected].

 

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